David Brent approves of Michael Scott's one-year plan. Ricky Gervais, the original deluded boss to which all others must pay homage, said Thursday that, despite the billions that...

Ricky Gervais, Steve Carell Dave Bjerke/NBC, Paul Drinkwater/NBC

David Brent approves of Michael Scott's one-year plan.

Ricky Gervais, the original deluded boss to which all others must pay homage, said Thursday that, despite the billions that would be made if Steve Carell stayed on The Office longer, the NBC star's decision to leave after next season is a good one.

"It was of course inevitable (and sad), but I wish him all the luck in the world," Gervais writes on his blog. "He is quite possibly the nicest, hardest working man in America and it has been a joy working with him over the last six years. (And taking the piss out of him at every award show.)"

Indeed, Gervais' quips and Carell's stone-cold stares have made for many highlight reels over the years.

"It was expected of me, as executive producer, to persuade him to stay on," Gervais continues. "With syndication in full swing the more successful the show remains, the more billions we all make. It was tempting, but the truth is, I believe he is doing the right thing. He's fulfilled his contract and more, and is a huge film star now. (I knocked it on the head after 12 episodes and a Christmas special.)

"I'd be lying if I said he should do more. He shouldn't. He should move on, continue to do great work, and buy a new house every time The Office is repeated somewhere. (That's what I do. Maybe I'll buy one next door to him one day. That'll f--king teach him.)

"Good luck Steve."

Gervais' run on the BBC version of The Office lasted as long as the series did: two seasons and the Christmas special.